Wednesday, December 20, 2006

No, those are not capris, they just got pulled up when we were prying herout of my moms arms!

Blowing Kisses

Ready for church

She is so cute!

Enjoying the nice WARM weather

How ya like my pigtails?

Goin' shoppin

Today, Kayden went to see Santa. She was freaked out at first, but at least gave us a calm look for the picture. The other pictures are just us hanging out around the house. She loves to play with her toys and "read" her books. I am so blessed that she plays well by herself. It gives me some time to get things done.I am so ready for the next few weeks! I am doing some baking tomorrow, all my shopping is done and Christmas in in 5 days! All of my family will be here for Christmas and then we are leaving on Christams Day to spend the week with John's family. I love seeing all our family! I know this isn't such a big Christmas for Kayden but I am really excited about it for her. I know Santa has some cool things for her! This will probably be my last post until the new year. I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas, happy new year and safe travels. See ya in 2007!!!!!!!

Monday, December 18, 2006

I have been waiting a few days to post this, but now the shock has worn off and I think it will be ok. On Wednesday, one of my best friends, Patience, found out her husband is being called to active duty in the Army and has to report to Ft. Benning on Jan. 14th. I know this happens all the time and to a lot of people it is no big deal. And considering the circumstances with Micah, this is a big deal to us. His name is Brad Lawson and they really didn't think he would be activated due to the timeframe of his service, but he will be sent to Arizona after Ft. Benning for training.Brad is one of those great men who serve their country because they want to. He is a man of God and will make us all proud. One of the reasons we are all a little upset is because Patience and Brad have an 18 mo. old and another boy due in May! They are both struggling to accept that fact that he might not be here for the birth. We are praying he will be stateside for 6mo. before he has to be deployed anywhere. I write all this to ask for your prayers on their behalf. LUckily, Patience is from here and she has a great family to help her and a great church family as well. WE have been friends since we were in 4th grade and it makes me cry everytime I think about her having to say good-bye to Brad. Anyway, please keep this family in your prayers.

Tuesday, December 12, 2006

I was reading another blog and found a post about safety of carseats. I watched this video and of course cried the whole way through it. I don't know the author, but if it is true, then it is worth looking in to. Disclaimer...the video will make you cry! But, it is good info. to have for future reference.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azgBhZfcqaQ

Monday, December 11, 2006

A few days ago one of John's former teammates from Harding and a Soldier in the Army was killed in Iraq. His name is Micah Gifford. I just knew him through John but whenever I was around him he was always so fun and genuinely nice. I have thought about him so much since we found out about his death. It is heartbreaking to know that we have soldiers that die everyday but when you know one of them, it really makes you think about things. I was reading his myspace page last night with John and I had tears streaming down my face as I read what his friends and family said about him. I know that Micah was doing what he loved and for all the right reasons. In his bio he explains why is was over there fighting and it is very moving. I just wish everyone could have the same attitude he had about this war. Even though I didn't know him well, I know he was protecting our country and for that I am SO thankful. If you get a chance to read his bio, it will let you understand just a tiny bit of what kind of guy he was. His page is www.myspace.com/bigdumbhonkey. That should tell you right there how funny he was. Some friends of Micah's also set up a website you can comment on, www.micahgifford.com .Anyway, I just wanted to pay tribute to Micah for his dedication and service to our country. I know he will be missed by his family, friends and fellow soldiers. Thank you Micah!

Monday, December 04, 2006

Well, I have finally overcome one of my biggest fears! Staying home by myself. Since I was little, I hated being by myself. When I was growing up I made my sister sleep in the bed with me because I couldn't sleep in the room by myself. I know, I know, I have a big problem. I am a scaredy cat. Even when I was in the dorms at Harding and all my roomies were gone for the weekend, i didn't sleep well. After John and I got married, he worked nights at Wal Mart for a while and it was torture every night getting to sleep. We lived in an apartment and that made it a little easier. After we bought our house in Cabot and he was still working nights, I would lay awake most of the night thinking about the worst things and "hearing" every little noise. I just resigned that I would never be able to sleep in a house by myself.John was out of town all last week and with the exception of one night when my mom spent the night (Kayden was really sick), Kayden and I stayed all by ourself! Those of you that know me really good, know this is a huge accomplishment. I will admit that it would take me about 30 min. to get to sleep, but once I was there, it was smooth sailing. Each night it got easier and easier for me to doze off.Sorry if this is boring, but I had to express my happiness...I just hope I can do it next time :)

Thursday, November 30, 2006

Kayden loves to go riding in her wagon. She slouches down like she is reclining. Very funny.

My cousin Ashley just got back from Australia. He has grown a beard, as you can tell. He looks totally different now. Not bad, just different and older. I like it Ash!

We also put up our Christmas tree. It is by no means fancy, but it has all our personal ornaments and Kayden's ornaments on it. I just love to look at it. Kayden will look at it when we turn it on and say, "OOOOOO".

Terri was here during the break, so of course she is in the slide show.

Some of our good friends have a tradition of grinding sugar cane and making syrup. My Papa did it for a while, but he no longer has the mill, so I like to go and watch when I can. Anyway, we went over to the Copeland's on Thanksgiving Day to watch them make it. It is a complicated process that I know nothing about. I just like chewing on the sugar cane and eating the syrup afterwards. It is so neat to see it done too. John had never watched it before, so we enjoyed it. The Copeland Grandsons are now doing the majority and they did a good job. I love seeing things like this around the holidays. Just makes you appreciate your family and traditions even more.

My Mom also brought a rocking chair to Kayden yesterday. It will go to her house for Kayden but she loved it. We had to feed her dinner while she rocked in it yesterday. She is too funny.

Thankfully, she is over her fever. For two days she has been running fever and today it finally went down. I hate when my baby is sick. She is very clingy and whiny when she is not feeling good. I am glad she is back to her normal, happy, energetic self. Thanks to my Mom and Granny for all their help with her. I couldn't do it without them!

Ok, that should catch me up on blogging. I will try not to let it lapse so much next time.

Oh yeah, one more thing...

Today is Rauly Eason's one year old birthday. This is Kayden's best friend and we just want to wish her a happy one. We love you Rauly and can't wait to see you again.

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

Well, as I sit on my couch and watch TV, my husband is in LAS VEGAS! He wouldn't let me go...just kidding. He is actually there for a convention for work. Plus, I have been on a few vacations without him, so I guess it is his turn.I have been such a bad blogger. So, I will try to catch up. Thanksgiving was great. My sister came and spent a week. We ate and laughed most of the time. Oh, and shopped! I am almost done with Christmas. We also put up our tree and I have put one in Kayden's room. It is adorable. I will get pictures up this week, I promise TERRI!Since this is a random post, so I will talk about Kayden's sleeping problem. For the past 3 night Kayden has woken up and been awake for 1-2 hours! It is about to drive me insane. I think she is just awake and thinks it is time to get up. I have tried tylenol, gas drops, milk, everything. She could be cutting teeth also, but I am in much need of some sleep! maybe tonight will be the night (or I just jinxed myself).Not much new is going on with us, so kind of boring. Check back for pics this week.

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

One of my friends took some one year pictures of Kayden. She took about 70, but these are just a FEW of my favorites. Lindsey did such a great job. She captured so many beautiful faces and expressions of Kayden.

Kayden is standing now by herself. When she gets ready to move though she wants your hands to help walk. I know it will only be a matter of weeks before she is walking. My little girl is just growing up.

On a separate note...today is my Mom's birthday. She says she is 36! We don't want to devastate her so we humor here and go along with it. She is such a wonderful Mother and always has been. I really can't begin to go into detail all the amazing things she has done for me but I just want to give her a shout out and tell her Happy Birthday, Momma. I love you.

Sunday, November 12, 2006

Kayden had a great birthday weekend. Friday was her actual birthday so we spent the day just having fun. We hung out around the house, played on the swing and I just enjoyed having my little girl. Friday night we went to a Fall Festival and she loved seeing all the kids. She would say, "OOOOOH" at everything. JOhn and i went birthday shopping and my wonderful mom babysat. Sat, we got ready for the big party. We just had my family over (there is enough to fill a house) and had chili. Kayden got all kinds of fun toys for her birthday. She got a red wagon, a shopping cart, a bounce and spin zebra, and ball maze that shoots the balls out of the top, lots of books, a magnetic puzzle for the fridge and all kinds of little things. Thanks to all my family who came and helped us celebrate Kayden's birth.

Today, she slept most of the afternoon, but John and I got started on Christmas decorations. I am so excited about Christmas. I love decorating and listening to Christmas music. The tree isn't up yet...but it will only be a matter of days. I will post pics then.

Thursday, November 09, 2006

My baby girl will be a year old tomorrow...It is so hard to believe that it has been one year since Kayden graced us. I remember the night we went to the hospital so vividly. I remember her birth like it was yesterday. The 4 hours following, I can't remember as good, but I remember the important stuff. (This might be a long post...sorry, I am a very emotional person and I am doing this post for myself as much as for everyone else.) These are some of my favorite pictures over the year.

We prayed for Kayden for so long and I couldn't belive it when she was finally here. God has blessed us with a wonderful daughter. I thank him everynight for her and the joy she has brought to our family. I want to feel like this forever...

When we first brought her home I really wasn't sure what I was supposed to do. If it weren't for my mom, I would have been a wreck. She was with us for the first two weeks. I also had help from Terri, Granny, my Mother in Law - Janice, and my sister in law - Mary. They were all so gracious to give me some help and sleeptime. It is amazing how much I needed it. I also "phoned a friend" many times. Yes, even Nikki at 2:00 am! Thanks to Nikki, Lindsey, and Patience for all your comfort and advice over the miles! John is a great Daddy. Even when he would get home from work, he would rock Kayden and let me have some "me"time. She was a daddy's girl even from the beginning.

I look forward to her growing up and conquering new milestones, but I wish I could go back and hold her when she was a month old sometimes. She was such a good and cudly baby. She really didn't cry much. Kayden has been an attention getter from the first day. Everyone has always commented on how pretty she is. And of course we think she is the prettiest.

Tears fill my eyes when I think about her growing up and changing so much. Time has gone by way too fast. If you are a mom with a newborn, and you are reading this, savor each moment with your child. Yes, even the times when they are crying at 3 am and you are ready to pull your hair out. It is easy to wish time away and miss it when a year has gone by.

If Kayden could read this, I would say this to her...I love you with every ounce of my body and soul. You are so precious to me and I don't ever want to take advantage of our time together. I love your smile and laugh. I love when you wake up and reach for me. I love your cheesy grin with your nose wrinkled up. I love your tender heart and your sweet spirit. I love your innocence. I love your open mouth kisses and pats on the back. I love you and always will. Love, Mommy

Monday, November 06, 2006

View from our room!November is a great month for me! Last year of course being the best when Kayden was born but in 2004 I went to Hawaii for 10 days with girls in my office at the time. Our boss lived there and flew 3 of us over for a vacation. All we had to pay for was some food.If you ever get the chance to go to Hawaii, don't pass it up. Spend a little extra on your vacation and go there. We stayed right on the beach and could see Diamond Head from our hotel.Hawaii is so beautiful. There was so much to see and do. Here are a few pictures from my visit. I just like to reminise (sp?) about what a great time we had. I can't wait to go back with my family.

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

Welcome to the 2006 Holiday Edition of Getting to Know Your Friends! Enjoy!! Everyone has time for a few moments of fun! Don't be a scrooge!!!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot Chocolate!2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Just sets them out3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? lots and lots of White lights4. Do you hang mistletoe? never have5. When do you put your decorations up? Usually around Thanksgiving, but I may start early!6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Stuffing7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child: Going to Montana with our family8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? what are you talking about?9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Yes10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? Red, white and silver with white lights11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Love it12. Can you ice skate? yep13. Do you remember your favorite gift? I don't know that I have one favorite gift14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Being with my family15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Pumpkin pie and fudge16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? John and I have started watching National Lampoons Christmas Vacation every Christmas eve, we love that movie17. What tops your tree? Lights18. Which do you prefer giving or Receiving? Giving for sure, I just have a hard time deciding.19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? Silver Bells20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? yummy, yummy

Kayden was a bumble bee for Halloween. We went around to my families houses first then we went to our friends, the Warrens for party and hayride. Kayden loves all the kids. She also loved the hayride. She got some candy and some people actually had some things for the little kiddos like crackers, goldfish, etc. That was very sweet of them. We had a good time,but she was worn out by the time we got home. I love halloween, but now that it is over, just means one thing...Christmas is next! yippee!

Tuesday, October 31, 2006

Friday, we went to Searcy for Harding's Homecoming. It is so neat to see how the campus has changed and see the alumni on campus. We walked around campus some and just hung around Terri's house most of the afternoon. It rained and then got very windy but we went to a pumpkin patch anyway. She loved playing with the little pumpkins. They were just her size. Terri had a few at her house and she played with them all weekend.Friday night we went to LIttle Rock to the Baber's house to eat dinner with some friends. In attendance were: the Babers, Easons, Blounts, Bells, Thorntons, Siegels, Kempers, and us. There were kids everywhere. I didn't get a picture because it would have been a nightmare to try to round them all up and get them sitting for pictures. We did get pictures of the adults though. We had pizza and dessert and just visited for a few hours. Kayden got very tired and cranky, so that was our cue to go. Thank you everyone for a fun time. It was good to see you all again.Saturday morning my dad and I ran in the bison stampede. Well, he ran, I ran and walked. It felt so good and the weather was perfect. I finished so I was proud of myself. We had a little bit of time to do some shopping in Searcy before the game. John, Kayden, myself and my parents all stayed at my sisters house. She has the cutest house and it was so nice to be able to stay with her and visit. At the game we saw many old friends. It was packed and the Bisons won in overtime! Go BISONS! After the game we had a little party for Kayden at Terri's house. Lots of friends came over to help us celebrate Kayden's birthday (early). Aunt Terri gave Kayden a sliver cup with "Kayden's first birthday" on it. Aunt Ashley Hilson gave her a candle bear that smells like baby powder and will keep her room smelling good.It was fun to see all our friends and family this weekend. I know there are some I didn't get to see or visit long but hopefully next year we will have more time.Thanks Aunt Terri for putting up with us and staying up with Kayden so I could get some sleep. We love you and miss you already.Sorry this is such a long email but I tried not to leave anything out. It is always nice to see everyone and it is always nice to get home.

We are back from our road trip and I think I have caught up on sleep. We had a great time seeing family and friends (some for the first time). This will be a long post, so if you aren't interested in our weekend, I would turn back now. We left Wed. night and headed to TN to see the Hicks family. We got to see all our family and also our friends, the Ezells and their new addition, Austin Henry. He is the little boy in the picture with Kayden. He is so cute and we got to play with him for a little while. John ate lunch with Eric and Kayden and I ate lunch with Hannah at their school. Kayden loves her cousins. She will watch them play all day. She especially loves Laura and Hannah! They had a little party for her with cake and the trimmings. Aunt Mary bought her a chicken that plays music and she liked it from a distance. She didn't want it close to her at all. She got a new coat, hat and mittens from Grandmama and Paw Paw and a new red wagon from Uncle Tommy and Aunt Jennifer. (We haven't put it together, that is why there is no pictures yet.) She was a little shy about getting into the cupcake at first. All it took was one taste and she was in it up to her eyeballs. It was so much fun! We don't get to see our family up there much but when we do we always have a great time. Thanks you guys. We love you and miss you.

Tuesday, October 24, 2006

We are leaving for TN/AR tomorrow! We are planning to spend a day with John's family and Kayden will have one of her first birthday parties. Then on to Searcy, AR for Harding University Homecoming. We will be there all weekend. I am so excited about seeing my sister and all our college friends. Friday night we are getting together with a group of friends and eating dinner. It is so exciting to see what everyone is doing now.

I loved college. I loved the social life and living in the dorms. I had great roomies - Tiffany, Ashley and Angela. We had so much fun living together. So many memories were made during those 4 years.

John played football there and so it is fun to see the old football players and their families too. I love football season. The weather is so cool and the leaves are turning. If you are reading this and plan on being in Searcy, I look forward to seeing you.

Saturday, October 21, 2006

Last night we had some friends over for dinner and a movie. Brad and Patience have a little boy, Reagan who is 18 mo. After dinner they were both playing in the floor and Kayden got on her car and Reagan started pushing her. They played really well together. It is good for Reagan to get some practice because he will have a little brother or sister in May! We are so excited for them. Kayden has a fluffy pig, Nonna, and we will tell her to give it kisses and she hugs and kisses it. I wondered what she would do if I told her to give Reagan kisses...They both leaned in for a kiss and as you can see, Kayden grabbed his shirt ( I guess to make sure she gave him a good one). We started laughing so hard. She is already a flirt. She was flirting with some man in Chick fil a the other day. We will have to keep our eye on her!

Thursday, October 19, 2006

This has been passed on to me from Lindsey, so I am going to do my best. She has come up with words that she has made up and uses in her day to day. I am supposed to try to come up with the definition of these words. So, here it goes...

Pahreh-some organic dessert that takes like cardboard. Ex. John said, "This Pahreh takes like cardboard." (thought you would like that LIndsey :)

Bagadoo-to feel grumpy or lousy. Ex. I feel like a bagadoo.Crankin- to get things moving, to hurry up. Ex. Let's this party crankin!

I am not very creative, so mine were boring, but Lindsey's were pretty good, if you want to check hers out. Or, you can come up with your own def. or words and pass along! Ilove fun games. I would come up with my own, but I really can't think of any words I have made up. I am pretty boring. Sorry

Monday, October 16, 2006

This has been our weekend...Friday night my dad got the grill going and we had hotdogs, hamburgers and roasted marshmallows. Yummy! It was cool finally, so we had a good time sitting around and visiting. We visit a lot at my parents house. We love to sit around and talk and laugh (especially when my sister is there). I love my parents. They are so down to earth and so much fun to be around. I could have sat by the fire for hours, but Kayden needed her bed, so...

On Saturday we went to my Papa's family reunion. It is at his family's homestead and just his immediate family. I haven't been in a few years, so it is always interesting to see who shows up. We called my Papa's Momma, Old Granny. Not to be disrespectful, but my Mom's Mom was Granny, so it was just obvious, that the other Grandmother was the older Granny. Anyway, her name was Melissa (yes, my namesake). I remember sitting on her porch and brushing her long hair. I have so many memories of her and the farm. Her house isn't there anymore, but the memories are very vivid. We would go up there about every weekend and see my cousins too. We walked down the road to where their house was and it is all grown up now. Sad, but we had a good time remembering the good ole days. I know this probably isn't anything most of you care to read about but I felt like sharing...

Well, Sunday, Kayden woke up with a terrible runny nose, congestion, and drainage. YUCK!I thought it might be sinus stuff first, but we both have it. Kayden slept most of the morning and I got to get some rest too. We have been keeping her on medicine which I am sure makes her drowsy. I hate to do that to her, but I thinks it helps her rest. Today has been the same pretty much. She gets very clingy when she doesn't feel good and very whiney. I have to remind myself she is feeling bad. Hopefully we will both be feeling better soon. We are going to go stir crazy if we dont' get out soon!!!!!

Thursday, October 12, 2006

I received a website that tells all about Parker and his progress. There are also a few pictures. It is below and a link to the right with the other blogs. You will have to go to visitors sign in and the site name is parkerhendley (one word).

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

The doctors did a lot of tests on Parker on Monday to rule out any other syndrome or problems. The tests all came back negative. He doesn't have downs or any other syndrome. The problems are not genetic, either. Parkers disabilities are from his brain not developing. Although that is still very devastating, Parker will live even with those disabilities. My mom sounded very positive that he might go home sooner than they thought. He will probably still have a feeding tube, but he will get to home home with his family. I think this information has helped Angie and Donald. Parker will never be a typical little boy, but he will be surrounded by his wonderful family that will love him unconditionally.

Thank you so much for your prayers. I think it is obvious that the prayers lifted up in Parker's behalf have worked. I know the Hendley's would thank you too. I will update when I hear anything else.

Monday, October 09, 2006

We bought Kayden some new toys this weekend so thought I would share some pictures. She loves being outside and we have been out everyday on the swing. When she plays in the living room the first thing she does is go for the car. I guess John and I did a good job picking them out! She is 11 months now. It is so hard to belive that. It makes me a little sad, but I know she is going to be doing so many new things and she will continue to bring joy and laughter to our life.

Saturday, October 07, 2006

I talked to mom just a few minutes ago and she is just now on her way home from Macon visiting with the Hendley's. She said they had a great time and think it helped lift Angie's spirits a little. Angie is still in a lot of pain, physically, but is taking pain medication (thank goodness for some pain medicine)!Mom said they all cried when she first got there and Angie was updating them, but after that they just tried to keep her mind off of things. There are a few good things and some still up in the air. Here is what Mom told me.Angie is pumping and they are giving that milk to Parker through the feeding tube! She is still trying to get him to suck and is very hopeful he will make progress soon.

He is moving a little, like his mouth and eyes.

The doctors have said he does not have down syndrome but they are running other tests to find out exactly what syndrome he does have.

The right side of his brain did not develope which I found out controls motor skills. That is why he isn't moving arms and legs much.

He is still having bowel movements and peeing.

He has only lost a few ounces.

Angie gets to hold him pretty much as often as she wants to. Mom said this has eased her peace of mind a little, but of course is still concerned.

The doctors still cannot tell them what he will be capable of when he is released. They would like him to be able to suck and breath at the same time and also swallow before he is released. He could go home with a feeding tube and they will administer his nourishment that way.

I ask that you pray for these doctors that are doing the tests on Parker and that everyday he will improve in some area. Pray for Angie and Donald that they will have some peace of mind and be able to get some sleep. Pray for Angie's physical healing-having a c-section isn't the easiest thing in the world. Pray for Lauren as she is away from her mommy, daddy, and brother often. Pray that God will heal this little boy and he will have the best life possible.

Thank you so much for your prayers. I know the Hendley's will appreciate it. I have put the address of where they are staying if you would like to send them a card. It is in another post below.

Last night my parents kept Kayden (overnight) and JOhn and I went out on a date. Our dates are by no means extravagant but it is just us having a good time. We ate seafood and planned on going to a movie. We had some time to kill so we went to Home Depot to look for Kayden a swing. They didn't have one so we just walked around. We decided we didn't really want to go to a movie so we went to Toys R Us. We had so much fun picking out things for Kayden. We found a swing and also got her a little car she can ride or push. I was so excited.

We needed some dessert so we went to Steak n Shake...it took forever in the drive-thru so if you know my husband you can only imagine how entertaining he was while we waited. We laughed so hard.

It made me think about our days at Harding when we were dating. We had such a good time with very little worries or cares. Don't get me wrong, I love my life now and my daughter is the most wonderful thing onthis earth. I just like to reminise.

When my mom brought her back we had put her toys together and hung her swing up. I think I was more excited than she was. She loves her swing. She is still trying to figure the care thing out. But she likes it. It is going to be so much fun to pick out birthday and Christmas presents.

The weather here is wonderful. Probably in the sixties. I think we are going to get out and go to town with my Granny. I will post some pictures this weekend of her new toys.

Friday, October 06, 2006

Before I begin I would like to say that the info I am receiving is from my mom who has been in contact with a family member. I know that the info is correct, I just don't know specifics. Angie made it to Macon safely yesterday and got to hold Parker for a few hours. He is not on a respirator but still needs the feeding tube. He was not able to suck or swallow as of yesterday. Today the doctors met with the family and I think were able to give them better news. They said he is now stable, but the right side of the brain did not develop completely. (I am not sure what all that controls) They didn't have a lot of news except that it looks like he will be able to go home in two weeks. After that, they really didn't know how he would do. I don't think they could really tell what all he would be able to do in the future, if anything. Sorry this is such a vague post...this is as much as I have been told. As I said before, this is coming through 3 people, so hopefully I will not have anything mixed up.Angie did try to nurse him and she thought he sucked a little. He has also had a bowel movement and urinated. Those are good signs that some of his organs are working.My mom is going tomorrow to see them, so I hope Angie will be able to tell her more details.

Thank you so much to those of you who have passed this story on. I know it will mean so much to them. Angie and Donald were able to get into the Ronald McDonald house and here is the address if you would like to send cards.

Wednesday, October 04, 2006

Unfortunately, there isn't any good news about baby Parker. The doctors have now determined he is deaf, he is on oxygen and can no longer eat through a feeding tube. He seems to be getting worse. My mom saw Angie and she is struggling to keep it together. Donald is still with Parker and Angie is planning on going up there tomorrow. She is having trouble keeping food down and along with the pain from surgery, is hurting physically as well. Donald has had to make decisions today on his own and is not doing well emotionally either. Please keep this family in your prayers. I know they will appreciate the thoughts and prayers of those they don't even know. Please keep Lauren, their daughter, in your prayers also. Thanks for checking the website.

Parker was sent to see a specialist about two hours away.The doctors now have said that Parker's problems go way beyond downs. They think he might have had a stroke and had some siezures even in the womb. He is also partly brain dead. This is much more worse than the doctors originally thought. My mom was going up to see Angie after school. Donald is in Macon with Parker. Parker will be in the hospital for at least two more weeks. Please, Please keep praying for this family. I know this has to be a rough time for them. I will update when I find out more. Please pass this on if you will.

Tuesday, October 03, 2006

I have seen through another family very recently the power of prayer and I ask that you keep this family in your prayers. My friend and my mom's fellow teacher, Angie, went into the hospital today to have her baby. It was a scheduled C-section, and Parker was born about 12:30 today. We went to see them tonight and when we got there they had just told them that he probably had down syndrome. They are obviously surprised and upset and I ask that you say a special prayer for them. Angie and Donald have a 3 year old daughter, Lauren. They are a sweet family and followers of Christ. They told us he may have to be taken to another hospital also. That is about all I know, but I will update more tomorrow. Please pass this info on to any other prayer warriors. Thanks.

We had another great weekend at the beach...We went down Sunday to see our friends, Chad, Lindsey, Shepherd and Rauly Eason. We went to church then to eat seafood. The weather was wonderful on Sunday and we spent about two hours playing in the sand and water. It was so nice to spend some time with them. We don't get to see them very often so when we get together it is extra special. After we had all had enough sun we went to a shopping center and looked there. We had dinner together and then it was time to say our goodbyes. Thanks so much for a great day. We love you guys and can't wait to see you again in a few weeks.I should have talked about this first but on Saturday I had two baby showers to attend. My friends, Tessa and Sara are both due in Nov. I think they are both going to be early though. It was good to see some old faces and talk about new babies coming into their lives. My friend Summer spent the night with me and we stayed up and chatted Friday night like old times. She is in Atlanta now, so we don't see each other too often. I miss her being so close but makes our get to gether that much more exciting.I conquered a milestone today...I ran 1.8 miles! My goal is 3 miles, so I am over half way there. Thanks to those encourage me on a daily basis to keep it up. It means so much to me.

Wednesday, September 27, 2006

Today has been so much better than yesterday. Kayden has gotten over her reaction and I actually gave her 1 oz. of Lactaid in each bottle today. She did fine with it. That helps so much.The pictures are of her giving her picture kisses and the frog. If you catch her in a good mood, she will give you kisses until your face is wet from slobber! It is so sweet. It makes me laugh when she does it over and over. It is just the little things that she does that make my day. She has TWO new teeth coming in. I thought it was just one but I could see two very clearly tonight.

I also got much accomplished...I cleaned the entire house--bathrooms, floors, dusted. I also did my morning run, which I am actually enjoying a lot more that I thought I would.I also finished removing the wallpaper glue from our guest bath (we are remodeling the bath and I had to take wallpaper off-ugh)! It feels good to get all that done in one day and make sure Kayden doesn't get into everything.

The weather was wonderful so we played in the yard some too. It is hard to believe that this time last year I was 8 mo. pregnant and anticipating her arrival. It was so fun to dream about her and what things were going to be like when she came into the world. I miss the tiny days, but I look forward to all the new things she will do. Everyone always comments on how good and pleasant she is. I hate to brag, well, no I don't, but she is such a good girl. Our almost 11 months together have been so wonderful and I feel so blessed that God gave her to us.

Tuesday, September 26, 2006

Well, I was supposed to start Kayden on 1/2 formula and 1/2 whole milk today. I gave her a bottle this morning and not 10 seconds after she drank it, she vomited all over us. I don't just mean on my shirt, I mean on my shirt, my pants, my arms, her clothes, the couch and the floor. I felt so sorry for her. She had a reaction about 2 mo. ago when we tried her on whole milk and re relived the nightmare today. She didn't break out, but vomited a few more times. She had 3 baths within 30 min. Not a very good start to the day. To make matters worse, the pediatrician's office did not answer my questions and blew it off as a virus! I was so upset. Her second tooth also came in. You can barely see it, but it is there. I think that has made her more tired than normal and clingy. We spent lunch at the park with some friends which Kayden loved. She loves to swing. She was still really tired from the mornings episodes though.It has been a long day and I just hope she gets some rest. I could care less about myself, I just want her to sleep good and feel better tomorrow. It was a rough day for me not only because of the vomiting but today started the formula only bottles. I will no longer be nursing her, even in the mornings and it makes me a little sad. I think that was one of my favorite parts of being a mommy. It was such a bonding experience and I thank God that he allowed me to have that special time with her. I love my daughter and she is growing up and I know it is time, it is just a little sad. On the flip side, maybe this will help with the weight issue. Tomorrow will be better...

Sunday, September 24, 2006

This weekend my friend Patience and I took our kids to the beach in Jacksonville. It was Kayden and Reagan's first beach visit. We went shopping a little in the morning and then went to the beach after lunch. The mall was so great. We didn't spend a lot, I am sure our husbands are thankful, but we had a really good time.

After lunch we headed to the beach with our bags, strollers, toys and kiddos! It was such a beautiful day and I guess everyone else had the same idea we did. We parked our stuff and Reagan headed straight for the water. He is 17 mo. old so he is on the go. He kept Patience at the water the majority of the time. When we had them in the sand playing they had a ball. They dug right in. Kayden would look at her sandy hands and go for more!

We put sunscreen on the kids before we got to the beach so when we got out there we totally forgot about us. My back and shoulders are about the color of a tomato! It was nice weather so I didn't think about until we had been out there for about 2hours and Patience said, "I think you are getting burnt!" Understandment of the century.

We played in the water some too and Kayden wanted to crawl to the waves everytime. It was so fun to watch her expression. She would holler at all the people in the water too.After we were about wiped out we decided to head home. We tried to get the kids as clean as possible before the ride home. They were not too thrilled about the cold showers. We got them cleaned up though and got ourselves changed.

Reagan watched a movie and Kayden slept on the way home. Patience and I laughed about some of the crazy things that went on and had a great visit. We grew up together so this was so fun to be hanging out again with our children.

All that to say...we had a great time at the beach. I can't wait to go again!

Wednesday, September 20, 2006

It was so wonderful outside today. Kayden and I did our run/walk. We spent some time with my friend Patience too. They have a little boy, Reagan and so we go over and swing. Kayden loves to swing. We also went for a walk and put the kiddos in the double stroller. It has felt so good all day. Kayden was a lot more content today. Yesterday, she was not so happy. Her second tooth is about to break through and so I guess she felt it. Two successful naps today(for Kayden), so I feel like I accomplished something.

Another reason I love this season is all the season premiers! This weeks has been busy at night because we are watching all our favorites. I do miss the cooler weather in AR. It seems to get cool and stay that way. We could be wearing shorts in Dec. here. Hopefully not!

I have attached some pics of our weekend. Terri made it back to Searcy, but not without some car trouble only an hour and a half away. I felt so bad for her. She had a long tuesday. I think she is doing better today.

Monday, September 18, 2006

The weekend is over, Terri is on her way back to Searcy, and we must go back to our routine. We have had such a great time with Terri being here. Saturday we ate lunch together and then spent most of the afternoon in the pool just playing and visiting. Then my family went out to eat. Sunday, Kayden, Terri and I went to church with my parents and spent the day with them. John couldn't go because he has been sick, but feeling better today. Today, we ate lunch with my grandparents and did some shopping. I am so grateful for my family. We always have so much fun when we are together. We laugh so much and it makes me anxious for our next get-together. I am so blessed to have the support system that I do. Not only do I have a wonderful husband, but my sister is also my best friend. My parents and grandparents go above and beyond to help us and support us. Thank you guys so much for your love. There is no one like you!We don't have much going on this week. Kayden and I will probably lay low and do a lot of playing around the house.

As far as my exercise plan goes...I am up to running 1.2 miles and walking a mile. I have never really enjoyed running, but it hasn't been that bad. Kayden loves to go jogging in the stroller. She is usually about asleep when we get back to the house.

I will do more writing I am sure, since we don't have much going on this week. Stay tuned...

Saturday, September 16, 2006

Terri is here this weekend. We have already been having so much fun...She brought Kayden her first truck!We are having a relaxing weekend.This is Kayden's 10 mo. picture. She is getting so big. She loves to look out the front door.More about our exciting weekend later.

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

No, I still haven't posted pictures...I am not as computer savy as I thought. I will figure it out soon, I just haven't had much time to play with it. This week has been good. John is working hard and I have been busy with Shows in the evenings. That has been about all going on with us though.My sister comes home on Friday! Yippee! I am so ready to see her and for her to see Kayden. Kayden is all over the place. We have to watch her serioulsy every minute or she will be on the fireplace or eating a magazine or playing with the outlets (yes, I have the outlet covers on them). Yesterday, she took EVERYTHING out of the "plastics" cabinet. It was everywhere!What do you do though? She was busy, and having fun, so oh well.

Any HU alumni out there? We are planning to be at Homecoming on Oct. 28th, so hopefully we will get to catch up with everyone. Well, need to get off of here.

Friday, September 08, 2006

Time seems to fly when you have a child. I can't believe Kayden is 10 months now. She is so much fun and we really have a good time together. Her nights have been a little different. She will get in a rut and be up a few nights a week for a few hours. I know it could be due to many things, so we are trying to take it one day at a time. I am still doing Premier Jewelry. I love it. I get to meet so many people and it is such a wonderful company to work for.John has started working with my uncle on swimming pools. One day hopefully he wil be able to build us one! I can't wait for that.My parents are doing good too...Dad bought a dump truck and loves that. He is waiting on insurance and then he will be able to haul for anyone. I am going to take pictures this weekend and figure out how to post them. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

About Me

This life has many blessings. I hope to focus on those during this next year. My girls make my heart smile everyday and God gives me hope everyday. This blog is a reflection of our life, I hope you enjoy it.